What are some common medications for high blood pressure?

A:

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Common generic antihypertensive drugs that treat high blood pressure include thiazide, a diuretic; metoprolol, a beta-blocker; diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker; and enalapril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme, or ACE, inhibitor, according to Mayo Clinic. ACE inhibitors and calcium channel blockers relax and widen blood vessels to allow for better blood flow.

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Diuretics assist the kidneys in removing excess salt that holds water from the body, thus releasing the pressure and fluid within blood vessels, according to MedlinePlus. Diuretics are commonly combined with beta-blockers such as the brand Ziac to slow the heart rate and the amount of force used to function, as detailed by the American Heart Association.